About the Special Litigation Section
The Special Litigation Section is a dynamic and high-impact unit within the Alaska Department of Law’s Civil Division. Created to develop and deploy litigation expertise across the department, this section handles some of the most complex, expedited, and high-profile cases facing the State of Alaska. Attorneys in this section often collaborate with other legal teams and state agencies to address urgent or precedent-setting legal challenges that require strategic coordination and deep subject-matter knowledge.
Major Litigation Workgroup
This workgroup leads the Department’s efforts in extraordinary civil litigation, including:
- Constitutional challenges to state laws or executive actions
- Emergency injunctions and expedited proceedings
- Multi-agency disputes or litigation involving significant public policy issues
- High-stakes cases involving federal-state conflicts or jurisdictional disputes
- Representation of the state in multi-state litigation or amicus efforts
Attorneys in this group are often called upon to craft legal strategy under pressure, manage complex discovery and motion practice, and argue cases in both trial and appellate courts. The work is legally diverse, fast-moving, and often in the public eye—ideal for litigators who thrive on challenge and impact.
Consumer Protection & Antitrust Workgroup
The Consumer Protection and Antitrust Workgroup plays a critical role in safeguarding Alaska’s consumers and promoting fair competition in the marketplace. This team enforces the Alaska Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act and the state’s antitrust laws, working to prevent and remedy:
- Fraudulent or deceptive business practices
- Unlawful advertising and marketing schemes
- Price-fixing, bid-rigging, and other anti-competitive conduct
- Consumer scams, including those targeting seniors, rural communities, or vulnerable populations
- Violations of privacy and data protection laws
This workgroup also conducts investigations, enforcement actions, and public outreach, often in coordination with federal agencies and other states. The team’s efforts help ensure a fair, transparent, and competitive economy for all Alaskans.
The Special Litigation Section is staffed by a dedicated team of attorneys, investigators, and legal support professionals who bring exceptional skill, integrity, and public service commitment to their work. Whether defending the state in court or protecting consumers from harm, this section plays a vital role in upholding the law and advancing justice across Alaska.
Section Contact
For further information on the Special Litigation Section contact:
Margaret Paton-Walsh
Chief Assistant Attorney General, Section Supervisor
907-269-5200
Consumer Protection Unit: 907-269-5200
Toll free outside Anchorage: 1-888-576-2529
Consumer Protection Email: consumerprotection@alaska.gov